Testing for natural killer cells and plasma cells
in the endometrium
If a woman repeatedly suffers from unexplained miscarriages and failed implantation, an increased number of uterine NK cells (natural killer cells) may be the cause. There is evidence that an excess of NK killer cells in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) can lead to immunological rejection of the embryo and prevent it from implanting in the uterus.
In about 10-20% of women with unexplained recurrent miscarriages and implantation failure, studies have shown that bacterial chronic inflammation of the lining of the uterus (endometritis) could also be responsible for the failure of pregnancy. Very rarely diagnosed because of its mild or imperceptible symptoms, chronic endometritis can be detected indirectly via plasma cells.
If necessary, both uterine NK cells and plasma cells can be determined at the ReproCreate Fertility Clinic.
In these examinations, a fine, flexible catheter is carefully inserted into the uterus through the cervix to take a small sample of the uterine lining. This procedure is usually painless and very low-risk. The tissue sample is sent to a special pathology laboratory for further examination.
If the suspected diagnosis is confirmed histologically (too many uNK cells / chronic endometritis), the appropriate therapy is initiated before a further IVF/ICSI treatment cycle.
